Qualifying as a Solicitor: Traditional and Alternative Routes

The legal profession has evolved significantly, and so have the ways to qualify as a solicitor. Whether you’ve dreamed of being a lawyer since childhood or discovered your passion later, there are multiple paths to achieve your career goals.

Traditional Routes

If you choose law as your degree, the next step is the Legal Practice Course (LPC), which costs around £15,000+ and can be taken full-time or part-time. Alongside this, securing a training contract is essential, work experience and summer placements with law firms are highly recommended.

For non-law graduates, the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) offers a conversion route. This course costs approximately £8,000+ and enables progression to the LPC and training contract stage.

Alternative Routes

With university applications declining, many aspiring lawyers are turning to CILEx qualifications, which offer flexibility and affordability:

Level 2 Certificate in Legal Studies – for those without formal qualifications
Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice – requires GCSEs or equivalent
Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma – advanced stage after Level 3
CILEx Graduate Fast-track Diploma – for law graduates seeking CILEx membership

Benefits of CILEx:

Earn while you learn and gain practical experience
Total qualification cost: approx. £9,031
70% of employers fund staff training
Legal Executives can progress to partnership level—many top firms now have Chartered Legal Executive Partners.

The Future: SQE

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is set to become the new standard route. We’ll share more details on this soon.

Choosing the Right Path Consider your goals, finances, and timelines carefully. Each route offers unique advantages, so research thoroughly before deciding.

For a confidential discussion about your options, contact us today.